While there are no real rules to your wedding rings, traditions can argue otherwise. What are the rules and traditions when it comes to the ring around our finger? Let’s talk wedding rings before making the big purchase.
Choosing Wedding Rings
The idea of wedding rings goes way back to about 5,000 years ago in ancient Egypt. The tradition seems to be pretty solid, since we are still doing it today. In fact, the exchange of wedding rings is one of the most significant parts of your wedding ceremony. Traditionally, wedding rings match. This is not always the case. The modern idea is to choose wedding rings that are an expression of individuality, just as much as they are a symbol of the marriage. Regardless of how different or how how similar our rings might be, they will always remain symbolic of the union. The whole his and hers matching wedding rings is still very much around, but there is more room for creativity these days. It is not uncommon for a man to sport a black band and a woman to wear platinum or gold. Some couples choose matching tattoos. With the doors wide open for expression, how do we choose our wedding rings?
The Rules in a Box of No Rules
While there are no real rules set in stone about wedding rings, there are a couple basic rules to choosing jewelry to consider. There is more uniqueness to an individual than fashion. We each have a unique skin tone and shape of the hand. While one partner prefers white gold, the other might desire the tough tungsten carbide. Not every skin tone will match the same metals. A smaller and wider finger will look awkward with a wide band. If you are considering stones, you will need to match the stone to the metal and the cut to the shape of the hand. While you both could be Disney fans, you might favor Cinderella and your significant other might be a die hard Star Wars fan. The theme of the ring can be as unique and playful as each individual.
Yellow Gold Wedding Rings
Gold is the most common precious metal of choice for wedding rings. Yellow gold is visually appealing, and compliments tinted diamonds that white gold, silver and platinum bands cannot pull off. Yellow gold is an expensive metal; however, the price decreases with alloys that create 10K and 14K gold. The average cost of a gold wedding band is between $300 and $700.
White Gold Wedding Rings
Gold is not white, but with a little imagination and the combination of other metals, such as platinum, palladium or even silver can bring it to a lighter color. The application of rhodium plating creates the final touch. Rhodium is another rare and expensive precious metal; however, electroplating only requires a thin layer of rhodium in the process. White gold resembles platinum at a fraction of the cost.
Platinum Wedding Rings
Platinum has become one of the most sought after metals for wedding rings. Platinum is strong, durable and just gets better over time. Unlike other metals that require maintenance, platinum maintains a bright luster that is less susceptible to aging. Antique platinum wedding rings can develop a satiny or slightly frosted texture. The patina effect of platinum is even more desirable.
Silver Wedding Rings
Fine silver is a soft precious metal that is commonly preferred with intricate designs. Fine silver is also known as pure silver or 99.9% pure. Sterling silver is a pure grade of silver, composed of 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper. Copper is added for durability. While silver is less expensive than other metals, it requires continuous maintenance to prevent tarnishing.
The Crystal Ballroom
Finding the perfect wedding rings is just the beginning of the happily ever after story. Bring imagination to The Crystal Ballroom and exchange your wedding rings during a ceremony designed from fantasy. Let the designers at The Crystal Ballroom bring your fairy tale to life in a ballroom designed just for you. Choose your theme, colors, flowers and décor where dream weddings come true. Make your wedding day everything it should be at this all-inclusive wedding venue.
